A 55-YEAR-old man who took to his bike after catching sight of his overweight self in a mirror is representing Great Britain in a cycling event next weekend.

David Brewin from Stroud is heading off to Poland for the Cycling World Gran Fondo Championships where he will be competing as part of Team GB on Sunday, September 1.

David took up cycling to get in shape, but says it has now ‘become an addiction’.

“I started cycling towards the end of 2014 when after a long look in the mirror I was horrified to see the reflection of someone who was without doubt overweight,” he said.

“The mileage gradually went up as my weight started to come down,” he said.

By 2015 David was a committed amateur cyclist and keen to take part in the Grand Fondo.

“It’s for amateur cyclists although there are plenty of ex pro cyclists taking part,” he explained.

“For the 2015 and 2016 events I qualified on both occasions, but couldn’t get to the finals as they were too far away.”

In 2017, the final was held in the south of France, close enough for David to take part. Hopeful of qualifying again, he began his training.

Devastatingly, a freak accident on a muddy road saw David break his leg.

Complications meant he had to have an external frame fitted to his leg, which was on for eight months.

“My muscles waisted away and walking was a struggle. It was a very tough time as I also lost my job because of the protracted rehabilitation period," he said.

“The one thing that kept me focussed though was the thought of getting back on the bike, getting my fitness back and maybe, just maybe qualifying for that event again."

And that's just what he did.

“The qualifier was a brutal race but I got through it and a week later I was invited to ride for Team Great Britain in the World Championships in Poznan, Poland on September 1," he said.

“It really has been a long journey to get to the start line of these amazing championships and it will be an absolute honour riding in my country’s colours.

“I would of course love to bring home the rainbow jersey of my age group, but to be honest just being part of it will be like winning, especially considering the journey to get to the start line.”